The Paracas Peninsular Nature Reserve is found just south of Lima and consists of marine waters and coastline, as well as tropical desert. Paracas houses Peru´s only marine reserve and has been recognized as s UNESCO World Heritage Site in order to protect the areas spectacular array of wildlife. Including what the local Peruvians claim to be their Galapagos Islands, the Ballestas Islands form part of the Paracas Nature Reserve and together the area boasts one of the highest concentrations of birdlife on earth. To name a few, pelicans, penguins, and red boobies can be spotted as well as whales, dolphins and thousands of sea lions.
At the moment the reserve is particularly noisy, busy with the births of sea lions and turtles. Peruvian summer (Jan-Feb) offers the most spectacular sights within the reserve and is the recommended period to visit Paracas. As the reserve is two-thirds ocean, boat rides around the bay and islands offer tantalizingly close views of the incredible roster of endangered and peculiar wildlife. Though Paracas mostly attracts bird-watching enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, the town also houses an important museum on the ancient Paracas people, showcasing their unique methods of mummifying their dead and other traditions. Also, etched into a cliff overlooking the bay is the mystical Candelabro, an ancient drawing believed to be connected to the Nazca Lines.
South America Adventure Travel offers a range of Paracas tours that visit the Ballestas Islands as well as the Nazca Lines and other great highlights of Peru.